MANILA, Philippines — The Aquino family on Tuesday paid tribute to the late President Cory Aquino as they marked her eighth death anniversary.
The Aquino family held a mass at the Manila Memorial Park in Parañaque City, where she and husband Sen. Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. were laid to rest.
Aquino siblings Ballsy, Pinky, former President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III, Viel and actress and TV host Kris, as well as their respective families were present during the mass.
Former Education chief and current De La Salle University president Armin Luistro was also seen attending the mass for the late former president.
Public Works Secretary Mark Villar and former Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim reportedly sent flowers .
Former president Noynoy Aquino & family hold remembrance for mother Cory Aquino's 8th death anniversary. @PhilippineStar pic.twitter.com/Wb6vsjTosk
— Aurea Calica (@aureacalica) August 1, 2017
Ballsy, the eldest Aquino daughter, thanked supporters and family friends who joined them in commemorating their mother’s death anniversary.
“I cannot thank each one of you but you know that in our hearts you will always be there, kasi sabi ko nga sa mga panahon na mabango ang pangalan marami, kapag ka hindi masyado nandiyan pa rin kayo maski na napaka-trapik. Maraming salamat,” Ballsy said in her short speech during the tribute.
Meanwhile, Cory’s children, grandchildren and other relatives took to social media to remember her legacy.
“Wish you could be here to see up close the mother your baby turned out to be, because I had the best role model. I know you'd be proud,” Kris said in her series of Instagram posts dedicated to her mother.
Former President Aquino, on the other hand, re-shared a photo of his mother on his official Facebook account.
Meanwhile, Sen. Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV released a message as he remembered his aunt. He said that while Cory was referred to as “mother of our democracy,” he considers her a loving, thoughtful, humble and gracious aunt.”
“She inspired a generation to continue the work of safeguarding our freedom and improving the lives of our countrymen. She said, "I don't have any formula for ousting a dictator or building democracy. All I can suggest is to forget about yourself and just think of your people. It's always the people who make things happen,” Bam said.
“She reminds us, to this day, that it is up to all of us, together, to move this country forward and create a better Philippines. Salamat, Tita Cory!” he added.
Cory died on Aug. 1, 2009. She was the first female president in Asia.
Lola with a couple of nerds pic.twitter.com/mkg2WXwbfO
— Jonty (@jontssss) August 1, 2017